Interview: Ed Godden

I've worked with some fantastic photographers in my time, but there are few that I recommend unless I've met them and know them to be thoroughly awesome people. Ed Godden is one such person! I met Ed when he photographed Maya and Jamie's big day in 2015. Any time I get a wedding booking where I know he'll be photographing it, I do a little leap for joy. JUST LOOK AT THOSE PHOTOGRAPHS! Ed's been in the business a while so he's quite the wedding photographer alumni, but he's not faced a pandemic before either so I caught up with him about how's his 2020 been so far...

How're things with you?

Not too bad thanks. Trying to stay positive… and looking forward to shooting my first wedding since March in a couple of weeks!

When did you first pick up a camera and think, 'ooh I like this’?  

I first got into photography seriously when I was about 15 years old when my Dad gave me his 35mm film camera… I was hooked straight away and knew it was THE hobby for me!

What're you looking forward to the most when you get back to work?

Capturing beautiful memories on couples wedding days. I’m curious as to how differently I’ll have to work though with restrictions. And even more curious to see how the dynamics of a wedding day may have changed. 

What, if anything, are you going to do differently?

Not shake as many hands and hug as many people as I used to do at weddings (which is a real shame!). I’m a sociable person… and like to get up close when I document a wedding day.

The industry has changed a lot in the ten years I've been in business, and I'm sure it has for you too. What do you lament, and what are you pleased has changed?  

I’m pleased that couples prefer the more natural-looking images nowadays…especially as that’s what has always driven me to produce candid and fun photos instead of staged/fake photos. I’m still not a huge fan of some of the traditions associated with a wedding, especially church weddings and how strict some vicars can be with photographers… but it is what it is, and we just have to adapt.

Tell me about a wedding supplier that you can't wait to see again or that I need to know about

My mate Lee Garland. He’s also a Nottinghamshire based wedding photographer and I normally spend a lot of time sat opposite him in Nottingham whilst we edit our weddings. I’ve not seen him since before lockdown! Lots of WhatsApp messages and Zoom calls… but can’t wait to catch up properly over a beer.

Tell me about a wedding supplier that you can't wait to see again or that I need to know about

My mate Lee Garland. He’s also a Nottinghamshire based wedding photographer and I normally spend a lot of time sat opposite him in Nottingham whilst we edit our weddings. I’ve not seen him since before lockdown! Lots of WhatsApp messages and Zoom calls… but can’t wait to catch up properly over a beer.

What's been the best thing to come out of lockdown for you or your business?  

The best things have been the amount of time I’ve had with my kids. We have a 1 year old and 4-year-old, and I know I’ll never have this time again with them. So, it has been very precious.

What's the best piece of feedback you've ever had about your work?

I recently had an enquiry and a couple wrote on the enquiry form, "What do you like about my photography? - Really like the relaxed style and less of the mushy bollocks that we’ve seen on other websites!" - I LOVE an honest answer like that.

Could you pick your favourite photographic experience?  

About 10 years ago I was sent to The Atlas Mountains in Morocco to test a new camera made by Nikon. I spent 5 days trekking around with a group of other photographers and people from Nikon… the scenery was stunning... the experience was amazing… and I’d love to go back again one day.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

Just still being in the business after 25 years is probably what I’m most proud of. It’s a tough industry, and there are SO many photographers around now. Knowing that my work still attracts clients year after year proves to me that I must be doing something right. I never take this for granted though and am always trying to get better at my job.

What you're favourite makeup or skincare product?

Ha-ha... well seeing as I currently have a lockdown bushy beard... I'd have to say Nivea moisturiser for my forehead and neck!

Ed's wedding photography speaks for itself but he's truly a fantastic photographer and human to have around on your wedding day. There's nothing that will phase him after 25 years behind the lens! His style of photography is so laid back but you better believe he's switched on and ready for action. He sees things before they happen and grabs great action shots, from his years of sport and event photography.

Check out Ed's website to find out more about where he works and how he works. I hope to work with you again soon Ed!